Optimal Design of Cogeneration Systems to Use Uncertain Flare Streams

Abstract

An optimization approach is proposed for managing flares from multiple plants. The aim of the proposed approach is to utilize flared gas during an abnormal situation to produce combined heat and power while reducing the environmental impact associated with emitting greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere. A mixed-integer nonlinear programming model is proposed to determine the optimal size of equipment for the cogeneration system. The model takes into account the uncertainty associated with the price volatility of external fuels and the characteristics of flare streams including the Wobbe Index. Starting from historical data, several scenarios are randomly generated to emulate variations in the uncertain variables with several levels of risk. A case study is presented to show the applicability of the proposed system. The results show economic and environmental benefits emanating from reductions in operating cost and GHGs emissions. (Figure Presented).